Beer Review: Cellarmaker Arrowtown West Coast Pilsner
Brewery: Cellarmaker Brewing Co. (San Francisco, CA)
Style: West Coast Pilsner ABV: 5.4%
West Coast Pilsners are a modern, high-definition take on the classic style. While traditional German or Czech Pilsners focus on subtle noble hops and crisp malt, the “West Coast” variant uses American techniques to deliver massive hop aroma and flavor, while maintaining a clean, lean, and highly drinkable body.
Cellarmaker, having absorbed The Rare Barrel‘s sour legacy, still excels at the hoppy, clean beers it was founded on. Arrowtown is a spectacular example of this precision.
Appearance
This pilsner pours exceptionally bright and clear, displaying a brilliant, pale straw-gold color. A lively, bright white head forms and lingers, leaving intricate, sticky lacing on the glass as it recedes.
Aroma
The nose is punchy and instantly inviting. It leads with a saturated burst of citrus zest (think grapefruit and lime peel) and light tropical notes of white grape and unripe passionfruit. Underneath, a clean, distinct ‘damp earth’ and pine resin character adds complexity, without any of the heavy, sweet malt aromas sometimes found in classic styles.
Palate & Flavor
The first sip is surprisingly dry and snappy, a testament to its 5.4% ABV and clean fermentation. The hop profile, presumably using modern Southern Hemisphere or Pacific Northwest varieties, dominates in the best way.
It delivers bright, vibrant flavors of Sauvignon Blanc grapes, key lime, and stone fruit (peach/apricot). There is a firm, clean bitterness that provides structure, but it lacks the harsh, lingering grassy bite of lesser lagers. The malt is a secondary player, offering a light, crackery base that simply serves as a canvas for the hops.
Mouthfeel & Finish
The defining characteristic of Arrowtown is its impeccable drinkability. It is very light-bodied, lively, and highly effervescent. The finish is extremely clean, sharp, and arid, a complete palate cleanser that leaves you craving the next sip.
Cellarmaker Arrowtown is a masterclass in the West Coast Pilsner sub-style. It successfully marries the explosive aromatics of a modern West Coast IPA with the clean, crisp drinkability of a world-class lager. It is bright, technical, and immensely refreshing. It pairs wonderfully with delicate seafood, white meats, or simply the summer sun.
Available at SF Tequila Shop
Exploring the dynamic craft beer scene of San Francisco, one pint at a time. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, we’re dedicated to uncovering the best local brews. We believe in the power of community and the unique stories behind every bottle. Our mission is to share our passion for craft beer with the Bay Area and beyond.